Tuesday, August 23, 2011

The fashion scene in Calgary evidently evolved over the last few years. We can see an increasing number of local designers began to challenge their comfort zone and spurring their talents into our, more or less, conservative community.

Although some designers made their decisions to stay in this city to continue their passions in fashion, many have left to other more prominent fashion capitals to pursue their career. With that being said, it is uncommon to find designers that would migrate from a large fashion playground to a less fashion-liberated community. However, we should never doubt any possibility, because Boston designer Aleem Arif and his fashion label Bano & eeMeeis the perfect example of our city's "fashion import".

I first met Aleem during the F/W 2011 Alberta Fashion Week. It was not until last week during his S/S 2012 photoshoot campaign I was able to visualize his collection. It was very thoughtful of Aleem to welcomed me go behind-the-scenes of their photoshoot. He also introduced me to his work, where I could view each of the pieces in detail.

Behind-the-scenes; Busy day at the set

Aleem’s mother, who was also a fashion designer, taught Aleem the basics of fabric and sewing and the process of designing for a clothier. Combining his background and knowledge in business, Aleem decided to come to Calgary, hoping to contribute and prosper the local fashion scene.

Aleem with hair/make-up team :); Photographers

Aleem’s inspiration was influenced by the ethnic and multicultural energy, which often can be found in Bano & eeMee. When I initally saw Bano & eeMee collection, it reminded me of a feminine bohemian style that expels a sense of peacefulness. Most designs are very simple, but I do feel there are enough elements to express the meaning of culture in each garment.

It was a fun photoshoot day, adding to the beautiful weather outside. Everyone worked hard to be on schedule and the photographers/models did an excellent job.

Aleem Arif and models; Aleem and me

The Bano & eeMee 2012 lookbook is on its way. Below is a small preview of the upcoming collection:

Preview to 2012 Bano & eeMee lookbook

…and of course to finish off the day, a final group photo :) cheers!!

Photoshoot team that day

I can't wait to see the finished Bano & eeMee 2012 lookbook. Thank you Aleem for the invitation.

It's cool to see there are more and more fashion events happening in the next few weeks. I rarely do this, but I want to take the opportunity to share some of the upcoming events and also potential discussions in Binzento Vincente:

Parkluxe August 26th 2011

PARKLUXE is PARK's newest fund-raising initiative, featuring diverse local designers who share the fine thread of crafting expert designs for a high-end market. Some of our city's brightest design talent will take the runway at Calgary's beautiful Winter Garden in this opportunity to showcase their work to the public and media.

Answering the call of the hair-impaired and those addicted to killer-coifs, Blo Blow Dry Bar is coming to Calgary. The first to market the no cuts, no colour concept in North America, Blo is opening its 1st location in Alberta (and 16th in the world!) on First Street on August 27, 2011.Now bullet-proof confidence is possible in about 30 minutes for 35 dollars.